I've recently arrived in Brisbane, and my first few roles have been temp roles.
I needed to take a temp role to get my income happening fast. Ultimately I want a permanent role. Some days I'm treated like a full-time employee, other days like a temp. But they keep extending me month by month. As I have not temped for that long I don't really know how to behave. Some days I take loads of initiative but other times, I take a back seat. I've been in my current role for a while now but I'm still confused how to act. They are an amazing company, but I want a permanent role. What can I do?
From,
Temping is Tricky
Dear Temping is Tricky,
Thanks for your question. Temping can be confusing right?
First things first, let’s acknowledge that you must be doing something right if they keep extending your contract each month.
Well done.
I appreciate you really want permanent work but had to take what you could to make sure your income needs were covered.
I am glad to hear that you think the company is amazing.
If permanent is what you want, and you like the organisation you are with, why not consider your Temporary job like a bit of a working interview? You could use the temp assignment as a opportunity to show how much value you can add. This might encourage the employer to transition you to permanent employment. Of course sometimes Employers simply cannot offer permanent roles due to headcount restrictions or hiring freezes so do consider what is happening for the organisaton as a whole right now and in the next 12 months.
Treating your Temp assignment as a working job interview gives you a chance to demonstrate that you are well worth retaining. Sure, this will take effort, energy and initiative, but I've no doubt that its well worth a shot.
These days many Employers are starting their staff on temporary contracts because they find it gives them the opportunity to see past the interview stage and observe how you really function in their workplace.
I'd encourage you to look at your temp role and consider how can you add the most value and exceed your Manager's expectations, it could be a great way to show them what a great operator you are and entice them to hire you on a permanent basis. Also, consider the benefits of being straight up with your Manager. It may be useful to ask if the organisation has any temporary to permanent career pathways.
I hope this answers your question. Good luck, be great, add value!
Liz Kingston
